But I've had a woman in my life for over a year now. She's actually faithful, loving, and asks nothing of me other than some attention and a place to sit on the couch. She makes me happy.

She's my black and tan coonhound. In all seriousness I was at a low point in life 2 years ago. I was active duty army as an infantryman, deployed to Afghanistan (an experience that will affect me for life), and deeply depressed. I'm now finishing up a double degree program in cell biology & neuroscience and biochemistry, work actively in a medicinal chemistry lab (a job I absolutely love and can see doing for the rest of my life, a first for me), and have excellent prospects for working in industry after I graduate or moving on to a top tier PhD program. When I was active duty I had a girlfriend who would manipulate me, try to make me jealous, try to control me, and generally just make my life miserable.

These days I've focused on me. My mental health issues, while still there and always will be, have improved greatly. I come home everyday to a dog who is happy to see me. She gets me outside and we go explore the beautiful area I live in. I have the freedom to go do what I want and see the world, and bring my dog along for the ride.

Going your own way may not be for everyone but it has made me a much happier person. Going my own way with my dog has been even better. I wish you all the best and hope you find your passions and the freedom of gyow in life.